Youngs.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website youngs.co.uk, it is a platform promoting pubs and associated hospitality services across London and the South of England. The site highlights pub gardens, seasonal menus, event hosting, and accommodations (“pubs with rooms”). However, from an ethical standpoint, particularly within an Islamic framework, the core offering of pubs and the promotion of alcohol make Youngs.co.uk an impermissible service to endorse or utilise. The website openly advertises “Cold pints,” “Spritz time” with various alcoholic beverages, and partnerships with gin brands, directly clashing with Islamic principles that forbid the consumption and facilitation of intoxicants. While it mentions “non alcohol supporters” and “No & Low Alcohol” options, the overwhelming emphasis and primary business model revolve around alcohol sales and consumption. Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid engaging with this service due to its inherent conflict with Islamic guidelines.

Overall Review Summary:

• Primary Offering: Pubs, restaurants, and accommodation services.
• Key Products Advertised: Alcoholic beverages (pints, spritzes, gin), seasonal food, event spaces, hotel rooms.
• Ethical Compliance (Islamic Perspective): Forbidden.
• Reasons for Non-Compliance: Direct promotion and sale of alcohol, which is strictly prohibited in Islam.
• Website Features: Pub finder, menu highlights, gift vouchers, event planning, job opportunities, sustainability information.
• Clarity of Information: High; services and offerings are clearly presented.
• Call to Action: Clear calls for booking stays, exploring pubs, buying gift vouchers.

Youngs.co.uk is essentially a digital storefront for a network of pubs, and therein lies the fundamental issue. While it showcases attractive pub gardens, comfortable rooms, and promises a good atmosphere for sports events or casual gatherings, the very nature of a “pub” in the UK context is inextricably linked with alcohol. The site’s content explicitly mentions “Cold pints,” “Spritz time,” and promotions with brands like Plymouth Gin, indicating that alcohol is a central part of their business model. Although they occasionally mention “non alcohol supporters” or “No & Low Alcohol” options, these appear to be supplementary rather than core to their offering. For a Muslim, engaging with or supporting a business whose primary income stream is derived from the sale of intoxicants is impermissible. Therefore, while the website itself is professionally designed and provides ample information, the services it promotes are not in line with Islamic principles.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Entertainment, Dining, and Accommodation (Non-Alcoholic Focus):

1. Ethical Cafes & Lounges
   • Key Features: Focus on coffee, tea, mocktails, and wholesome food; often provide comfortable, family-friendly environments; some host community events or workshops.
   • Average Price: £5-£20 per visit, depending on order.
   • Pros: Permissible for Muslims; social atmosphere without intoxicants; supports local businesses.
   • Cons: May not have the same extensive food menus as larger establishments; less variety in “entertainment” options.
2. Halal Restaurants & Eateries
   • Key Features: Certified halal food; diverse cuisines from around the world; often family-friendly with no alcohol served on premises.
   • Average Price: £10-£50 per person, varying by cuisine and restaurant type.
   • Pros: Ensures food compliance with Islamic dietary laws; often provides a welcoming atmosphere.
   • Cons: Availability may vary depending on location; specific cuisine preferences might limit choices.
3. Family-Friendly Tourist Attractions
   • Key Features: Museums, art galleries, historical sites, parks, nature reserves; focuses on educational or recreational activities.
   • Average Price: Varies widely, some free (parks), others £10-£30+ for entry.
   • Pros: Wholesome entertainment; educational and enriching experiences; suitable for all ages.
   • Cons: Not a dining or accommodation alternative directly; may require travel.
4. Boutique Hotels & Guesthouses with No Bar
   • Key Features: Smaller, often independently owned accommodations; some specifically cater to non-alcoholic preferences or do not feature a bar.
   • Average Price: £80-£200+ per night.
   • Pros: Potentially more serene and quiet environments; supports smaller businesses; can be a comfortable base for exploring.
   • Cons: Requires diligent checking to ensure no alcohol is served or promoted on-site; availability might be limited.
5. Community Centres & Islamic Centres
   • Key Features: Often host family events, lectures, workshops, and communal meals; provide a safe and supportive environment.
   • Price: Often free or low cost for events.
   • Pros: Direct community engagement; spiritually beneficial activities; safe and halal environment.
   • Cons: Not a commercial alternative for dining or accommodation; activities may be limited to specific timings.
6. Outdoor Activities & Sports Facilities
   • Key Features: Hiking trails, cycling routes, sports clubs (non-gambling related), adventure parks; focus on physical activity and nature.
   • Average Price: Varies, from free (public parks) to £20-£50+ for specific activities.
   • Pros: Promotes health and well-being; family-friendly; opportunity to enjoy nature.
   • Cons: Dependent on weather; may not offer dining or accommodation services.
7. Bookshops with Cafe Sections
   • Key Features: Combines a relaxed browsing environment with a cafe, usually serving coffee, tea, and light snacks.
   • Average Price: £5-£15 per visit.
   • Pros: Intellectually stimulating; calm atmosphere; no alcohol.
   • Cons: Limited food options; primarily a quiet space, not for lively gatherings.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Understanding Youngs.co.uk: A Digital Pub Network

Youngs.co.uk serves as the online face for Young & Co.’s Brewery, PLC, a company with a long history, dating back to 1831. Based on their website, they manage over 228 establishments, primarily pubs, but also “pubs with rooms” across London and the South of England. The website acts as a central hub, showcasing their various venues, their offerings, and their corporate ethos. While the design is modern and user-friendly, the core business model, as deeply rooted in the British pub tradition, is intertwined with the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages. This presents a significant ethical consideration, particularly for audiences seeking to adhere to Islamic principles that prohibit intoxicants.

youngs.co.uk Review & First Look

A first glance at youngs.co.uk immediately reveals its primary focus: the traditional British pub experience. The homepage is adorned with images of bustling pub gardens, enticing food spreads, and mentions of “Cold pints” and “Spritz time.” The site is well-structured, allowing users to easily navigate between different sections such as “Our Pubs,” “Our Menus,” “Gift Vouchers,” and “Book a Stay.” The visual appeal is strong, utilising high-quality photography to convey a sense of warmth and conviviality. However, the prominent display of alcoholic drinks, including specific promotions like the “Hugo Spritz” and partnerships with gin brands, underscores the central role of intoxicants in their business. From an ethical perspective, this direct promotion of alcohol is a red flag for those adhering to Islamic guidelines, which unequivocally forbid the consumption, production, and facilitation of alcohol. This means that while the website might seem inviting for a general audience, for a Muslim, it immediately highlights a fundamental incompatibility.

Youngs.co.uk Business Model and Offerings

The business model of Young & Co. as presented on youngs.co.uk is multi-faceted, extending beyond just serving drinks. They offer a comprehensive hospitality experience, aiming to be community hubs.

• Pub Gardens: A significant feature, particularly highlighted for summer months, offering outdoor spaces for relaxation and socialising.
• Food & Drink Menus: They promote seasonal food, Sunday roasts, and various dining options, alongside their extensive range of alcoholic beverages. The inclusion of “No & Low Alcohol” options is present but not the dominant narrative.
• Accommodation (“Pubs with Rooms”): They offer hotel-style rooms for overnight stays, catering to tourists and those seeking a short break, often bundled with dining packages like “Sip, Supper & Snooze.”
• Events & Parties: The pubs serve as venues for various events, including Christmas parties, weddings, meetings, and general celebrations.
• Live Sports: Many Young’s pubs are equipped with screens and subscriptions to sports channels like TNT and Sky Sports, positioning them as prime locations for watching major sporting events such as the Women’s Euros, Wimbledon Championships, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
• Gift Vouchers: Available for purchase, allowing customers to gift experiences at Young’s establishments.
• Sustainability Initiatives: The website details their commitment to sustainability concerning the environment, communities, and their people, which is a positive corporate social responsibility aspect.

Despite the breadth of services, the underlying current remains the pub environment where alcohol is central. For example, even the “Sip, Supper & Snooze” package explicitly includes “two Lillet Rhubarb Rosé spritz on us,” reinforcing the alcoholic element of their offering.

Ethical Considerations and Youngs.co.uk

The ethical considerations for Youngs.co.uk, especially from an Islamic perspective, are paramount. Islam strictly prohibits the consumption, sale, and facilitation of alcohol. The Quran (5:90) explicitly states: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, stone altars [for sacrifices to idols], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” This prohibition extends to being in places where alcohol is served or consumed without a necessity, and certainly to patronising or promoting businesses that deal in it as their primary function. Amazinggarages.co.uk Review

• Alcohol Sales: The most significant issue. Youngs.co.uk’s core business revolves around operating pubs, which are defined by their sale of alcoholic beverages. This makes it impermissible for Muslims to directly support such an establishment.
• Gambling/Entertainment: While not explicitly gambling, the promotion of live sports viewing can sometimes be associated with betting culture, although the website itself doesn’t directly promote gambling. However, the overall “entertainment” atmosphere in pubs is often linked to activities that might lead to further impermissible actions.
• Environment of Intoxicants: Even if one were to order a non-alcoholic drink or food, being present in an environment where alcohol is openly consumed by others can be problematic for some Muslims, as it normalises and facilitates something forbidden.
• Gift Vouchers: Purchasing or receiving Youngs.co.uk gift vouchers would also be impermissible, as they facilitate engaging with a business that primarily deals in forbidden goods.

Therefore, for those adhering to Islamic principles, Youngs.co.uk, despite its historical legacy and community focus, operates in a domain that is fundamentally at odds with core Islamic teachings.

Youngs.co.uk Cons: Why It’s Not Recommended

Given the ethical framework, Youngs.co.uk presents several significant drawbacks for a Muslim audience:

• Primary Focus on Alcohol: This is the overarching and undeniable con. The entire business model, from “pints” to “spritzes” and gin partnerships, is built around intoxicants. This directly violates Islamic tenets.
• Environment of Vice: Pubs, by their nature, can be environments where excessive alcohol consumption, loud music (which is also debated in Islam), and potentially inappropriate social interactions occur. While the website tries to paint a picture of wholesome community, the reality of a pub can often differ.
• Financial Complicity: By spending money at Youngs.co.uk, even on food or non-alcoholic options, one contributes financially to a business whose main revenue stream is from alcohol sales. This makes a Muslim indirectly complicit in an impermissible trade.
• Lack of Halal Certification: While they offer food, there’s no mention of halal certification, meaning the meat served would typically not be permissible for consumption by Muslims. Even if one were to opt for vegetarian options, the overall environment remains problematic.
• Limited Ethical Alternatives on Site: While they mention “non alcohol supporters,” the options for genuinely halal and permissible engagement within their establishments are extremely limited and overshadowed by the dominant alcohol culture.

In summary, the cons for a Muslim audience are not about the website’s functionality or design, but rather the fundamental nature of the business it represents. It’s a clear case of incompatibility with Islamic ethical guidelines.

Alternatives to Youngs.co.uk for Ethical Experiences

Given the unsuitability of Youngs.co.uk for Muslims, exploring ethical alternatives becomes essential. The goal is to find venues and services that offer socialisation, dining, and relaxation without compromising Islamic principles.

1. Dedicated Halal Restaurants and Cafes: Waltononthamesestateagents.co.uk Review

   • Description: These establishments explicitly serve halal-certified food and, crucially, do not serve alcohol. They range from casual diners to upscale restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
   • Pros: Guarantees halal food; often family-friendly; provides a safe, permissible environment for dining and socialising.
   • Cons: Availability might vary by location in the UK; choices might be limited compared to mainstream dining.
   • Example: Many independent restaurants in areas with significant Muslim populations across London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Halal Restaurants UK

2. Alcohol-Free Cafes and Dessert Lounges:

   

   • Description: A growing trend in the UK, these venues focus on gourmet coffee, specialty teas, mocktails, and desserts, offering a vibrant social space without alcohol.
   • Pros: Trendy and appealing; excellent for casual meet-ups; completely alcohol-free.
   • Cons: Food options might be limited to snacks and desserts; not ideal for full meals.
   • Example: Non-Alcoholic Cafes London

3. Community Hubs and Islamic Centres with Cafes:

   • Description: Many large Islamic centres and community hubs now feature their own cafes or restaurants, providing halal food and a welcoming environment for Muslims. They often host events, lectures, and workshops.
   • Pros: Strong community feel; often very affordable; ensures full adherence to Islamic values.
   • Cons: Limited in terms of commercial variety; often operate with specific opening hours tied to community activities.
   • Example: Muslim Council of Britain can provide directories.

4. Family-Friendly Attractions & Cultural Venues:

   • Description: Museums, art galleries, historical sites, parks, botanical gardens, and community parks offer opportunities for wholesome family outings and social gatherings without any association with alcohol. Many have cafes on-site that may offer halal options or at least no alcohol.
   • Pros: Educational and enriching; suitable for all ages; promotes healthy recreation.
   • Cons: Not primarily dining or socialising venues; may require planning for food.
   • Example: Museums in London, National Parks UK

5. Ethical Accommodation (Hotels with No Bar or Muslim-Friendly Policies): Citypharmacyportsmouth.co.uk Review

   • Description: When looking for “pubs with rooms” alternatives, seek out hotels or guesthouses that explicitly state they do not have a bar, or which are known for catering to a Muslim clientele (e.g., offering halal breakfast options, prayer mats).
   • Pros: Provides a permissible place to stay; can often be found in central locations.
   • Cons: Requires careful research to ensure no alcohol is served anywhere on the premises; may be fewer options compared to conventional hotels.
   • Example: Look for independent guesthouses or small hotels, sometimes specifying “dry” or “alcohol-free” on booking sites. UK Guesthouses No Alcohol

These alternatives ensure that individuals can enjoy social outings, good food, and comfortable stays while maintaining adherence to their ethical and religious convictions, avoiding the impermissible environment and offerings promoted by Youngs.co.uk.

How to Find Ethical Alternatives in the UK

Finding genuinely ethical and permissible alternatives to venues like Youngs.co.uk requires a proactive approach and a clear understanding of what constitutes a permissible environment. It’s not just about finding “no alcohol” options, but also ensuring the overall ethos of the establishment aligns with Islamic values.

1. Online Search with Specific Keywords:

   • Utilise search terms like “halal restaurants London no alcohol,” “dry cafes UK,” “Muslim-friendly hotels Birmingham,” or “alcohol-free venues Manchester.” This helps narrow down results significantly.
   • Resource: Google Maps and local directories are excellent for finding specific establishments.
   • Data Point: A growing number of search engine results now include filters for “halal” or “alcohol-free,” reflecting increasing consumer demand.

2. Check Customer Reviews and Photos:

   • Before visiting, scrutinise reviews on platforms like Google, TripAdvisor, and specific halal food blogs. Look for mentions of alcohol (or its absence), cleanliness, and the general atmosphere. Photos can also provide visual cues regarding the presence of bars or alcoholic displays.
   • Caution: Some places might state “no alcohol served” but still permit customers to bring their own, which would still make it an impermissible environment. Always clarify.

3. Consult Halal Food Guides and Community Forums: Onyorbike.co.uk Review

   • There are numerous dedicated websites and mobile applications focused on halal dining in the UK, such as HalalAdvisor, Halal Food Guy, and others. These are curated specifically for the Muslim community and are reliable sources.
   • Community Insight: Local Muslim community groups on social media platforms or forums often share recommendations and personal experiences regarding ethical venues.
   • Example: Halal Food Guide UK

4. Direct Contact with Establishments:

   • When in doubt, the most straightforward approach is to call or email the venue directly and ask about their alcohol policy, halal food sourcing, and overall environment. Be specific with your questions.
   • Tip: Frame your questions politely and clearly, for instance: “Do you serve any alcoholic beverages on the premises, including beer, wine, or spirits?” and “Are your meat products certified halal?”

5. Focus on Specific Activity Types:

   • Instead of “pubs,” think about the activity you want to do:
     • For socialising: Coffee shops, tea rooms, shisha lounges (if shisha is permissible to you and environment is free of other impermissible acts).
     • For dining: Halal restaurants, home-cooked gatherings, picnics in parks.
     • For events: Community halls, hotel function rooms that can be booked without alcohol packages.
     • For stays: Serviced apartments, guesthouses, or hotels confirmed to be dry.

By adopting these strategies, individuals can confidently navigate the UK’s hospitality landscape and find options that align with their ethical and religious convictions, ensuring a wholesome and permissible experience.

FAQ

What is Youngs.co.uk?

Youngs.co.uk is the official website for Young & Co.’s Brewery, PLC, an independent family business operating over 228 pubs and pubs with rooms across London and the South of England. It serves as a portal to explore their various establishments, menus, event spaces, and accommodation options.

Is Youngs.co.uk suitable for Muslims?

No, Youngs.co.uk is generally not suitable for Muslims from an ethical standpoint. The primary business model revolves around operating pubs, which are defined by the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages, an activity strictly prohibited in Islam. Tollo.co.uk Review

Does Youngs.co.uk sell alcohol?

Yes, Youngs.co.uk extensively advertises and sells alcoholic beverages, including various beers, wines, spirits, and spritzes, as a core part of its pub offerings and partnerships.

Are there any halal food options at Youngs.co.uk pubs?

The website does not explicitly state that they offer halal-certified food. Given their traditional pub model, it is highly unlikely that their meat products would be halal. While vegetarian options might be available, the overall environment remains problematic due to alcohol.

Can I book a room at Youngs.co.uk pubs without engaging with alcohol?

While you can book a “pub with rooms” stay, the hotels are part of a pub establishment where alcohol is openly served and consumed. Even if you personally avoid alcohol, the environment itself is saturated with it, which is generally not permissible in Islam.

Does Youngs.co.uk offer gift vouchers?

Yes, Youngs.co.uk offers gift vouchers that can be purchased for use across their pubs and hotels. However, purchasing or using these vouchers is not recommended for Muslims as it supports a business dealing primarily in impermissible goods.

What kind of events can be held at Youngs.co.uk venues?

Youngs.co.uk venues host a variety of events, including office Christmas parties, weddings, private parties, meetings, and live sports viewing. These events typically take place in a pub environment where alcohol is served. Optimalatlantic.co.uk Review

Where are Youngs.co.uk pubs located?

Youngs.co.uk pubs are predominantly located across London and the South of England, including areas like Wandsworth, Central London, North London, East London, South East London, South West London, West London, Bristol, and Surrey.

Is Youngs.co.uk involved in sustainability initiatives?

Yes, Youngs.co.uk promotes its commitment to sustainability, outlining efforts related to the environment, local communities, and their employees. While positive, this does not override the ethical concerns regarding their primary business model.

How can I find out more about Youngs.co.uk’s corporate structure?

Information about Youngs.co.uk’s corporate structure, including details about their CEO and heritage, can often be found in the “About Us” or “Sustainability” sections of their website, or through professional networking sites like LinkedIn.

Does Youngs.co.uk promote live sports viewing?

Yes, Youngs.co.uk actively promotes its pubs as ideal venues for watching live sports, featuring major events like the Women’s Euros, Wimbledon Championships, and the FIFA Club World Cup, often alongside promotions for alcoholic beverages.

Are there alternatives to Youngs.co.uk for dining and socialising that are permissible in Islam?

Yes, many ethical alternatives exist, such as dedicated halal restaurants, alcohol-free cafes, community centres with cafes, and family-friendly cultural attractions like museums and parks. Ahbrass.co.uk Review

How can I identify a truly alcohol-free venue?

Look for venues explicitly stating they are “dry” or “alcohol-free.” Always check reviews, contact the establishment directly, and consult halal food guides or community forums for recommendations.

Does Youngs.co.uk have a loyalty program or app?

The website mentions “Young’s On Tap,” which appears to be related to their mobile offerings or loyalty. Details can typically be found by searching for “Youngs On Tap” on their site.

Can Youngs.co.uk pubs accommodate large groups?

Yes, their pubs and event spaces are designed to accommodate various group sizes for dining, parties, and corporate events.

What is the “Sip, Supper & Snooze” package?

“Sip, Supper & Snooze” is a two-night accommodation package offered by Youngs.co.uk, including bed and breakfast, dinner on one night, and two Lillet Rhubarb Rosé spritzes. The inclusion of alcoholic spritzes makes this package impermissible.

Does Youngs.co.uk have information about job opportunities?

Yes, Youngs.co.uk has a “Work With Us” section and calls to “JOIN OUR TEAM,” indicating opportunities for employment within their pub and hospitality network. Homecountiesit.co.uk Review

How old is Young & Co.’s Brewery?

Young & Co.’s Brewery has a long history, celebrating its heritage since 1831, making it a company with over 190 years of operation.

Does Youngs.co.uk partner with other brands?

Yes, the website mentions partnerships, such as with Plymouth Gin, indicating collaborations with beverage brands. This further reinforces their involvement with alcohol.

Why is music and entertainment in pubs often problematic in Islam?

While the permissibility of music itself is debated in Islam, the environment of pubs often includes loud music, sometimes live bands, and can be associated with activities or social interactions that are not conducive to an Islamic lifestyle. The primary concern, however, remains the alcohol.

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